Improper use of fireworks can cause severe injuries and presents a significant risk of starting fires. The HFD also reminds the public that only firecrackers can be used on Oahu. All other fireworks are illegal for consumer use in Honolulu.

“We hope that people will respect Honolulu’s fireworks ordinance and the dangers of firecrackers,” said Fire Chief Manuel Neves.

A little over 9,600 people suffered fireworks-related injuries and were treated in emergency rooms in 2011 and approximately 2,500 of those injured were children under 15 years of age, according to the National Fire Protection Association.

In Hawaii, the Injury Prevention Program of the Hawaii State Department of Health reported that in 2011 there were no fireworks-related injuries reported from hospitals on Oahu. The DOH noted that there was an annual average of 17 such injuries on Oahu during the preceding 8 year-period (2003-2010), with a high of 37 injuries in 2005.

The HFD believes the report of no injuries on Oahu in 2011 coincides with changes to the sale and use of consumer fireworks that became effective on January 2, 2011.